West Ham United are intensifying their efforts to sign Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika as the East London club looks to revamp their midfield ahead of the new season.
According to Sacha Tavolieri, the Hammers are in pole position to sign the midfielder who has impressed in the Belgian top flight.
The 24-year-old was in fantastic form for Club Brugge last season. He played a key role in their fiery challenge for the league title but narrowly missed out to Union Saint-Gilloise.
Onyedika featured 52 times across all competitions. His modest attacking numbers may have left much to be desired (two goals and two assists), but he was impressive on the other side of the ball.
The Nigerian international averaged 1.5 tackles and 4.5 ball recoveries per match. He also won 49% of his total duels, although those numbers can be improved upon.
Onyedika has been on West Ham’s radar for a while. He became a top target after impressing in last season’s Champions League.
He had a standout performance against Manchester City and capped off his display with a goal.
The Nigerian has become a key figure for Club Brugge. He’s a commanding presence in the middle of the park and will bring plenty of strength, composure, and tactical intelligence to West Ham’s midfield.
Onyedika, who has also become a regular in the Nigerian national team, has caught the attention of a number of Premier League clubs.
However, West Ham are leading the race. The Hammers are somewhat restricted by Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), but Graham Potter is determined to rebuild his squad.
The Englishman and the Hammers are coming off a forgettable campaign, where they finished dangerously close to the relegation zone.
West Ham need to strengthen every area of the squad, but the midfield is a priority, and Onyedika seems to tick all the right boxes. He’s athletic, versatile, and proven on the European stage.
Reports suggest that Everton are also interested, but West Ham are believed to have made the most serious approach so far. Club Brugge are willing to listen to offers of around £25m.